Fluorescent Lighting - Bringing Out the Right Colors

We're all familiar with fluorescent lighting in one form or another. Tube fluorescent lighting fixtures can be found in almost any public building.

In recent years, however, compact fluorescent bulbs that can be used interchangeably in sockets originally designed for incandescent lighting has brought the use of functional and decorative fluorescent lighting into the home both inside and out.

Why use Fluorescents Outdoors?

Compact fluorescent lighting and other types of fluorescent lighting such as fluorescent outdoor flood lighting are a great option for outdoor use. For reasons of aesthetics and security, outdoor and landscape lighting is popular but in this day of high energy costs and concern for the environment, such illumination often seems to be at best a luxury and at worse a waste of money. By replacing just four regular light bulbs with compact fluorescents, a homeowner will prevent the emission of 5,000 lbs. of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and save approximately $100 in energy costs over the life of the bulbs.

What are the Different Types of Fluorescent Lighting?

For years fluorescent lighting manufacturers have made their money on the staple product of this type of lighting, fluorescent lighting fixtures that hold elongated tubes. These fixtures are common in many public buildings and facilities. They can be installed in exterior areas that need strong illumination, for instance under a covered porch or patio. The intense white light from these tubes can be harsh, however, and unnatural and may not be the best choice for your outdoor lighting needs.

A better solution would be the new compact fluorescent bulbs that are interchangeable with normal incandescent bulbs. Especially when placed in fixtures with colored or shaded covers, the light from these bulbs is gentle and pleasing, offering a variety of potential uses. Green shaded lights cast on plants, for instance, will enhance their appearance in the evening. Blue lights work well around a pool, and soft amber lighting is nice for areas where people will congregate or sit and talk. (Actual colored fluorescent bulbs are available but may be more expensive. Altering the fixture itself is less expensive and gives you a wider range of color and tone options.)

Fluorescent Bulbs vs. Incandescent

Beyond their ability to lower energy costs and the fact that they are environmentally friendly, fluorescent strip lighting and other kinds of fluorescent bulbs emit less heat than incandescent bulbs. If you are placing lighting fixtures close to shrubbery or flowers, the cooler lighting option is better for the plants. Also, on a summer's night the bulbs won't heat up your porch or patio. Aesthetically speaking, the quality of the light when used in combination with a frosted or colored covering, is softer than incandescent, often resembling the pleasing quality of bright, moonlight night. Incandescent bulbs emit a more "yellow" light that is harsh and hard on the eyes at night.

Continue to: Is Anythign Special Required to Use Decorative Fluorescent Lighting

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